Latest news with #WAD
Hi Dubai
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
World Art Dubai 2026 Dates Announced as 2025 Show Honors 16 Prize Winners
World Art Dubai 2025 (WAD) wrapped up its final day on Sunday, April 20, at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) with an awards ceremony honoring artists and galleries in 16 categories. The prize ceremony marked the end of a successful 11th edition, which brought together 400+ artists, 120+ galleries, and 10,000+ artworks from 65 countries across Hall 1 and Zabeel Halls 1-3 of DWTC. The closing day saw a lively turnout of families and art lovers enjoying a packed agenda of workshops, including urban sketching and pottery at the WAD Studio, and bag tufting at the Textile Hub, a new feature that brought together 14 textile artists from nine countries. Three pop-up performance zones around the four halls created focal points of live music and art, including the sculpting of a life-sized face and head by Artezaar artist Jude Obozuwa. The entertainment programme closed with the audience donning headphones for a 'silent' show by European synth-pop duo, close to Monday. Closing the evening was a ceremony of awards across 16 categories, which included a Future Artist Award for primary and secondary pupils who imagined a creative vision of the world 50 years from now. The schools were gifted cash and workshops worth AED 1,000 by StuDIYo Lab. The Artist in Residence Awards saw two international artists win a residency at Rove Hotels and Radisson Red Dubai Silicon Oasis, during which they'll produce artworks inspired by their stay. This edition of WAD also marked the inaugural ANAX Art Award, introduced by the show's official property sponsor, ANAX Developments, to honour excellence in Emirati art. The award celebrates the growing cultural identity of the UAE and the intersection of artistic innovation with luxury design. Hend Rashed [CO1] was named the winner and will create a piece of art for an ANAX Property. Kanwar Singh, CEO of ANAX Developments, commented: ANAX Developments is honoured to present the ANAX Art Award at World Art Dubai, celebrating Dubai's rich cultural heritage and showcasing exceptional Emirati talent. This initiative bridges the worlds of art and luxury real estate, highlighting the deep connection between culture and design. In alignment with World Art Dubai's vision, the award reflects ANAX's dedication to boundless creativity and innovation. By supporting local artists, we are not only shaping our brand's cultural identity but also strengthening our connection with Dubai's community. This endeavour transcends art and design; it aims to tell a story that embodies the aspirations of the UAE. Sixteen categories were presented to outstanding talent across the show, with four key titles already announced during Friday night's VIP celebration. These were: ● Best Artist: Dhuha Al Khdhairi ● Best Emerging Artist: CubixArt ● Best Gallery: AN Inc. ● Best Artwork: Mualaqat Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Asma Al Sharif, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, said: For over a decade, World Art Dubai has championed both emerging and established voices across the globe. We're proud of the platform it continues to provide and are excited for its return in 2026 with even more creative energy and global participation. Looking ahead, organizers confirmed that World Art Dubai will return from Wednesday, April 29, to Sunday, May 3, 2026. With fresh names, inspiring artworks, and expanded features in the pipeline, the countdown to the 12th edition begins now. World Art Dubai 2025 is brought to you with support from legal sponsor Knightsbridge Group and official property sponsor ANAX Developments. Dates: April 17–20, 2025, at Dubai World Trade Centre
What's On
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
World Art Dubai kicks off today; here's everything you need to know
All things art this weekend at World Art Dubai… The region's largest contemporary art fair is back for another exciting edition. The 11th edition of World Art Dubai is here – you can't miss it, and we're going to tell you all the reasons why. The holy grail of art exhibitions will run from April 17 to 20, 2025. This year, brought to you in collaboration with Dubai Culture at the, World Art Dubai 2025 is all about empowering local and international creative prowess, bringing together over 400 artists and galleries from more than 65 countries. Expect to find entertainment, learning, and of course, affordable art for all. WAD will present more than 400 exhibitors – artists and galleries – from every genre of artistic expression, and thousands of visitors – collectors, industry leaders, and new creative opportunities, who will witness the variety – presenting a diverse array of artworks, from sculpture and watercolours to digital art and fashion art pieces. It's essentially the best platform for regional up-and-coming artists to find the spotlight and reach a global audience. While the number of exhibitors grow every year, with new participants adding to the portfolio, the repeat roster of exhibitors keeps growing as well, a symbol of how strong of a community WAD is. New in town… New pavilions will be making a splash at the exhibition this year, coming from Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, Estonia, and the Philippines to join existing pavilions like Turkey and the UAE. Each will bring a different flavour of art, with Zimbabwe's vibrant modern art, Mongolia's nomadic culture, Australia's bold murals, the Philippines Southeast Asian artists' talent and cultural heritage, and Mexico's mirror sculptures, giving visitors a chance to explore a wider spectrum of art, while also fostering that cross-cultural spirit. Going more international than ever, attracting a wider audience of collectors, designers, and industry professionals. Dubai Culture… As partners, Dubai Culture are bringing an inspiring programme of art as well, featuring live demonstrations, interactive workshops, panel discussions, and youth art initiatives. Visitors can engage in calligraphy and printmaking workshops, watch Emirati artists create live, and explore a special showcase blending traditional crafts with contemporary innovation. Activations you can't miss… The Textile Hub is a new dedicated space celebrating the craftsmanship and storytelling power of textiles, featuring live demonstrations, workshops, and interactive exhibits that engage the community through hands-on experiences that enrich the UAE's art scene. For the first time, large-scale installations will transform Dubai's urban landscape with Public Art Initiative with One Central, ensuring that the fair's artistic influence extends beyond its footprint at DWTC, and democratising access to art. ensuring that the fair's artistic influence extends beyond its footprint at DWTC, and democratising access to art. The Artist in Residence Programme returns to promote Dubai as an art incubator hub, offering international exhibitors the chance to create and showcase their work here, providing them with studio space, resources, and exposure to a global audience, and elevating the UAE's artistic profile returns to promote Dubai as an art incubator hub, offering international exhibitors the chance to create and showcase their work here, providing them with studio space, resources, and exposure to a global audience, and elevating the UAE's artistic profile This year, China is the fair's Country of Honour for 2025, with a dedicated pavilion of traditional and contemporary Chinese art and live cultural performances to promote international dialogue within the UAE art scene World Art Dubai Tickets are available to purchase on Platinum List and the WAD website, starting from Dhs20. World Art Dubai, Zabeel Halls 1, 2, 3, World Trade Centre, Dubai, Apr 17 to 20, Dhs20, @worldartdubai Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Hi Dubai
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
The Countdown Is Over: World Art Dubai 2025 Opens Tomorrow at the Dubai World Trade Centre
The wait is over - World Art Dubai 2025 (WAD) opens its doors tomorrow (April 17) at the Dubai World Trade Centre and runs until Sunday (April 20). With 400+ artists, 10,000+ artworks, and participation from over 65+ countries, the popular retail art fair is back and bigger than ever. Whether you're an art lover, collector, curator, or simply craving inspiration, WAD 2025 is your ticket to a global gallery like no other. This four-day fair boasts 12 world pavilions, 54 live performances of music and art, 10 talks from industry experts, and with more than 10,000 artworks on display, from classic oil paintings to cutting-edge digital pieces, every aisle offers something to discover. Dedicated to fostering a global exchange of ideas, the 11th edition of the show welcomes everyone from industry professionals to families intrigued by art, and every type of visitor in between. Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, remarks: This year's edition of World Art Dubai brings together exciting new features and returning favourites. From new pavilions for international artists and hands-on experiences for visitors to large-scale public installations and roaming entertainment, we've curated an unforgettable experience for you. We're calling on the media, art lovers, and the culturally curious to join us tomorrow. This is your moment to be part of something truly special. What to Expect at WAD 2025: ● New Pavilions: Explore art from 65 countries, including new for this edition, pavilions from Mongolia, Estonia, Zimbabwe, and Australia; and China, this year's Country of Honour. ● Emirati Favourites: The Emirati Pavilion also debuts, to celebrate its rich local heritage, featuring 50 pioneering Emirati artists including Mohammed Al Astad (Al Astad Art Gallery), Rashid Al Mulla, Abdulrahim Salim, Dr. Najat Makki, and many more. ● The Textile Hub: This vibrant hub by yarn specialists, Handmayk, will promote textile art in various mediums with 14 artists from nine countries. Immerse yourself in fun workshops, from tufting, weaving, embroidery, or innovative fabric manipulation. ● Dubai Culture's Creative Showcase: From calligraphy and pottery to youth art workshops and live performances, the Dubai Culture stand brings a powerful programme aimed at nurturing and celebrating the emirate's artistic talent. ● The Art Mentorship Programme: Returning for a second year with a 100% increase in mentees, Emirati artists are provided with a unique opportunity to collaborate with renowned mentors Rashid Al Mulla, Dr. Najat Makki, and Abdulraheem Salim. With anticipation building and tickets selling fast, World Art Dubai 2025 is set to deliver one of the UAE's most exciting cultural events of the year. Don't miss your chance to experience the world's art - all in one place. WAD 2025 is brought to you with support from our legal sponsor, Knightsbridge Group, and the official property sponsor, ANAX Developments. For a full list of exhibitors and to purchase tickets, please click here. Save the Date: April 17–20, 2025, at Dubai World Trade Centre April 17–20, 2025, at Dubai World Trade Centre Follow: @worldartdubai (Instagram) | WAD2024 (Facebook) | @WorldArtDubai (Twitter) News Source: Golinmena
Khaleej Times
15-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Emirati child prodigies to make debut at World Art Dubai 2025
For the first time, a group of Emirati child prodigies will showcase their artworks at World Art Dubai (WAD), the region's most accessible retail art fair, running from April 17 to 20 at Dubai World Trade Centre. The 11th edition of the fair brings together over 400 artists and galleries from more than 65 countries for four days of creativity, performance, and global artistic exchange. Amidst this international gathering, the MRK Contemporary Art Gallery booth will spotlight homegrown talent in an exhibition titled 'Emirati Art in Every Home.' The featured young artists—Aisha, Maitha, Hamdan, Rodha, Hessa, Amna, Saeed, and Creaye—are not your average children. From an early age, they embraced artistic creation over screen time or traditional toys. Their work—spanning paintings, caricatures, portraits, landscapes, digital drawings, and abstract pieces—displays emotional depth, technical ability, and imaginative flair rarely seen at such a young age. 'These aren't just sketches by kids. These are thoughtful, culturally rich, and visually sophisticated works that hold their own next to professional art,' said Meena Kamal, artist and owner of MRK Contemporary. 'Each piece reflects the spirit of the UAE—its traditions, emotions, and aspirations.' Rayad Kamal Ayub, founder of MRK and a UAE-based entrepreneur, says nurturing creativity in children is essential. 'Children are natural storytellers. Art helps them explore emotions, process the world around them, and express themselves freely,' he said. 'Platforms like World Art Dubai empower them to be seen and celebrated.' The fair's broader international reach this year includes new pavilions from Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, and Estonia, offering everything from Mongolian nomadic-inspired works to Mexican mirror sculptures and Zimbabwean contemporary art. The Emirati and Philippines Pavilions also make their debut, further spotlighting regional talent. China has been named Country of Honour for the 2025 edition, with a dedicated pavilion featuring traditional and contemporary Chinese art, alongside live cultural performances to promote global dialogue.
Arab News
07-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
400 artists, 65 countries: World Art Dubai returns in April
World Art Dubai, the region's most accessible retail art fair, is returning from April 17-20, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together more than 400 artists and galleries from 65+ countries. The 11th edition promises four days of art, entertainment, and a chance for up-and-coming artists to reach an exciting new global audience. As WAD continues to evolve, its impact is reflected in the growing number of artists and galleries returning year after year. With an increasing roster of repeat exhibitors, the fair has established itself as more than just an event — it is a thriving global art community. Artists and galleries recognize the platform's ability to connect them with collectors, industry leaders, and new creative opportunities, reinforcing WAD's reputation as a must-attend destination for artistic discovery and collaboration. As Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global cultural hub, the art fair plays a pivotal role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue and expanding public access to art. This year introduces two major additions to elevate the visitor and exhibitor experience: • VIP Preview — an exclusive, invite-only event offering first access to connect art collectors and commercial buyers directly with artists. • Hosted Buyer Program — A tailored matchmaking initiative for collectors and exhibitors ensuring strategic, interest-driven interactions for art acquisitions. Asma Al-Sharif, assistant vice president at exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, said: 'World Art Dubai remains a key platform for artistic exchange, uniting global artists, galleries, and collectors. We are excited to return another year, and unveil new initiatives that enhance engagement and accessibility, making this our most dynamic edition yet. We look forward to welcoming the global art community to Dubai for an inspiring celebration of creativity and culture.' This year's fair strengthens its international reach by including new pavilions representing Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, and Estonia. With Zimbabwe's vibrant modern art, Mongolia's nomadic culture, Australia's bold murals, and Mexico's mirror sculptures, this expansion allows visitors to experience a broader spectrum of global art, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. These additions contribute to WAD's mission of showcasing diverse artistic voices and fostering a global exchange of ideas. Additionally, the Emirati and the Philippines pavilions make their debut, spotlighting the regional artistry and positioning local and Southeast Asian artists' talent and cultural heritage of these regions. The expansion of existing pavilions, including those from Turkiye and the UAE, underscores the fair's growing influence as a premier international art fair, attracting a wider audience of collectors, designers, and industry professionals. As a strategic partner, Dubai Culture will present an inspiring program featuring live art demonstrations, interactive workshops, panel discussions, and youth art initiatives. Taking place at the close of Dubai's four-month-long art season, WAD 2025 promises an exhilarating showcase of creativity. This year's event features a curated mix of new attractions and returning favorites: • The Textile Hub — A new dedicated space celebrating the craftsmanship and storytelling power of textiles, featuring live demonstrations, workshops, and interactive exhibits. • Public Art Initiative with One Central — For the first time, large-scale installations will transform Dubai's urban landscape, ensuring that the fair's artistic influence extends beyond its footprint at DWTC, democratizing access to art. • Artist in Residence Program — The program returns to promote Dubai as a cultural hub, offering international exhibitors the chance to create and showcase their work here. • WAD Around the World — China is the fair's Country of Honor for 2025, with a dedicated pavilion of traditional and contemporary Chinese art and live cultural performances.
